'Welcome' by Belén Yáñez

Welcome approaches the concept of arrival as a fresh start and a welcoming point, intentionally shaping the narrative to evoke a sense of renewal and invitation.

Set in unconventional locations and facilitated by performers, Welcome transforms everyday spaces into immersive landscapes, encouraging participants to engage with their environment and each other in new ways.

Participants are equipped with full-face masks and headphones. The masks symbolise identity diversity, introducing a transformative element. This prompts a fresh outlook, empowering individuals to rediscover the familiar from a different perspective.

The headphones deliver a sound narrative constructed through audio components such as music, sound effects, and ambient sounds. Coupled with facilitation by performers in unconventional locations, this invites individuals to delve into their imagination. It fosters the creation of new visual scenarios, encouraging a unique and immersive narrative exploration.

The concept behind Welcome stems from an urgent need to establish welcoming atmospheres in our communities, fostering the integration process and encouraging cultural exchange.

Under Britannia Pier on Great Yarmouth Beach (2 durational performances)
Saturday 18th October: 10:00–13:00 & 15:00–18:00

Co-commissioned by Counterpoints Arts.
Presented as part of the Platforma Festival (October 2025) produced by Counterpoints Arts.
Supported by Arts Council England.

https://www.belenlyanez.com/welcome

Age Recommendation 12+ (for participation)

Conceived & Directed

Belén Yáñez

Original Music and Sound Design

Mike de Lis
Piti Varela
Chris Murphy

Performer

Belén Yáñez
José Gonçalo Pais

Masks

Carmen Triguero

Costumes

Rocio H. Valentín

Belén Yáñez

Belén is an interdisciplinary artist whose participatory practice blends performance, installation, sound, and visual art.
Her work explores how social conventions shape behaviour and perception, using immersive spaces rooted in everyday experiences to foster shared understanding and collective action. Her pieces are designed to stimulate the imagination of those who engage with them, fostering a sense of connection and
co-creation.
https://www.belenlyanez.com/
https://www.instagram.com/belenlyanez/